Best Impact Driver Under £150
Finding a high-torque impact driver that doesn't blow your budget is tough. We have compared specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to find the best impact driver under £150 for DIYers and tradespeople.
Quick answer
For the best overall impact driver under £150, the DeWalt DCF887 delivers 1,830 in-lbs of torque and a compact design. For the best budget option, the Ryobi RID18X has surprising power for the price.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
DeWalt DCF887
Compact, powerful, and reliable for most tasks.
| Product | Best for | Max Torque | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCF887 | Overall Performance | 1,830 in-lbs | 4.7/5 | Check |
| Makita XDT16 | Speed & Precision | 1,600 in-lbs | 4.6/5 | Check |
| Milwaukee M18 Fuel | Heavy-Duty Use | 2,000 in-lbs | 4.5/5 | Check |
| Bosch GDX18V-1800B12 | Versatility | 1,800 in-lbs | 4.4/5 | Check |
| Ryobi RID18X | Budget Value | 1,500 in-lbs | 4.3/5 | Check |
DeWalt DCF887
Best OverallPros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Three-speed settings for control
- Strong build quality and warranty
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- LED light could be brighter
The DeWalt DCF887 is a top choice for many DIYers and professionals. It offers 1,830 in-lbs of torque in a compact body that fits into tight spaces. Owner reviews praise its reliability and the three-speed settings that help prevent overdriving screws.
While it is not the most powerful on paper, its balance and ergonomics make it a joy to use. The main drawback is that it usually comes as a bare tool, so you need to invest in the 18V XR battery system separately.
Makita XDT16
Best for SpeedPros
- Very fast driving speed
- Excellent precision with assist mode
- Durable build with rubber bumper
Cons
- Slightly heavier than competitors
- Higher price for kit version
The Makita XDT16 is built for speed and precision. It features a brushless motor that reaches 3,600 RPM, making it one of the fastest impact drivers in its class. The assist mode helps prevent screw stripping, which is useful for delicate work.
Owner feedback highlights its long battery life and robust construction. The main trade-off is its weight, which is a bit higher than the DeWalt, but the added control makes up for it.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel
Best for Heavy DutyPros
- Highest torque in this roundup
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Excellent battery ecosystem
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier
- Can be overkill for light tasks
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel impact driver is a powerhouse with 2,000 in-lbs of torque. It is designed for heavy-duty applications like driving large lag bolts or working with dense materials. Owner reviews consistently note its ability to handle tough jobs without bogging down.
Its main downside is the weight and size, which can be tiring for extended use on lighter tasks. However, for those who need maximum power under £150, it is a strong contender.
Bosch GDX18V-1800B12
Best VersatilityPros
- Two-in-one impact driver and wrench
- Compact head design
- Good torque for its size
Cons
- Bit holder can be loose
- Battery life is average
The Bosch GDX18V-1800B12 stands out for its versatility, featuring a 1/4-inch hex collet and a 1/2-inch square drive. This allows it to function as both an impact driver and a compact impact wrench. Owner reviews appreciate this dual functionality for automotive and construction tasks.
Performance is solid with 1,800 in-lbs of torque, though some users report the bit holder can feel slightly loose over time. It is a great choice if you need one tool for multiple applications.
Ryobi RID18X
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable price point
- Works with large ONE+ battery system
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons
- Lower torque than premium models
- Build quality feels less robust
The Ryobi RID18X is the best budget option under £150, offering decent power for everyday DIY tasks. With 1,500 in-lbs of torque, it handles screws and light bolts well. Owner reviews highlight its value, especially for those already in the Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem.
It is not built for heavy professional use, and the plastic housing may not withstand drops as well as metal-geared models. For the price, it is a solid entry-level impact driver.
What to Check Before Buying an Impact Driver Under £150
When choosing an impact driver, focus on torque, speed, and battery system. Torque determines how easily it drives screws into tough materials. Speed affects how fast you can work. The battery system is important because it determines future tool compatibility and cost.
Also consider the tool's weight and ergonomics. A lighter tool reduces fatigue during extended use. Look for features like variable speed triggers and LED lights for better visibility.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an Impact Driver
One common mistake is buying a tool without checking the battery system. Ensure the brand you choose has a wide range of other tools you might need later. Another mistake is ignoring the tool's weight, which can lead to arm fatigue on long projects.
Avoid choosing based solely on price. A very cheap impact driver may lack power or durability, costing more in the long run. Always read owner reviews to understand real-world performance.
FAQs
What is the best impact driver under £150?
The DeWalt DCF887 is widely considered the best overall impact driver under £150 due to its balance of power, size, and reliability.
Is a brushless motor worth it?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient, provide longer run time, and require less maintenance than brushed motors.
How much torque do I need?
For most DIY tasks, 1,500 to 1,800 in-lbs of torque is sufficient. For heavy-duty work, look for 2,000 in-lbs or more.
Can I use an impact driver for drilling?
No, impact drivers are designed for driving screws and bolts, not for drilling holes. Use a drill for drilling tasks.
What is the difference between an impact driver and a drill?
An impact driver uses concussive force for driving fasteners, while a drill uses rotational force for drilling holes.
Do I need a battery kit or bare tool?
If you already have batteries from the same brand, buy a bare tool. Otherwise, a kit with battery and charger is more cost-effective.
How long do impact driver batteries last?
Battery life varies, but a 2.0Ah battery typically lasts for 100-200 screws on a single charge with moderate use.
Are more expensive impact drivers worth it?
Higher-priced models often offer better build quality, more torque, and longer warranties, making them worth it for frequent use.
Can I use impact driver bits in a regular drill?
Yes, impact driver bits can be used in a regular drill, but regular drill bits should not be used in an impact driver as they may break.
What is the warranty on these impact drivers?
Most brands offer a 1-3 year warranty. DeWalt and Milwaukee typically provide 3 years, while Ryobi offers 1 year.
Is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you need maximum torque for heavy-duty tasks, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel is worth the investment for its power and durability.
Which impact driver is best for beginners?
The Ryobi RID18X is a great choice for beginners due to its low price and ease of use, making it ideal for learning.
Our verdict
After comparing specs and owner reviews, the DeWalt DCF887 is our top pick for best overall impact driver under £150, offering a great balance of power and portability. For budget-conscious buyers, the Ryobi RID18X provides solid performance at a lower cost, making it the best value option.